Torino are set to be beaten to the signing of Sao Paulo full-back and Brazil talent Welington, who is set to join newly-promoted Premier League side Southampton instead, the player’s agent has confirmed to the media in Brazil.
Torino beaten to Welington signing by Southampton
South American outlet Globo reports that Welington is set to join Southampton on a pre-contract agreement. He is still under contract in Brazil until the end of the calendar year, but he will then be able to join Southampton on a free transfer.
Globo suggests that Southampton are working to obtain the player this summer, rather than in six months’ time. The club are still prepared to bring him in in January if they are unable to bring him over to Europe sooner.
Welington’s agent, Robson Ferreira, told Globo that: “Contract drafts are being exchanged. We are adjusting the salary and tax issues, since English taxesare even higher than they are here in Brazil.”
The 23-year-old is set to sign a four-year contract on the English south coast.
Recent reports in Italy, specifically from Sky Sport Italia, had suggested that Welington was being weighed up as a transfer option for Serie A side Torino, who will now have to move on to other targets this window.
Welington aceita proposta do Southampton
Ingleses tentarão liberação antecipada do São Paulo
📷 Erico Leonan/São Paulo https://t.co/iTkke00j2G
— ge (@geglobo) July 5, 2024